Hundreds of audience members will soon gather to watch the SLU Choirs present their annual concert entitled “Requiem,” where over 100 students will combine their voices to sing the two-part show.
Tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Columbia Theatre, the Southeastern Women’s Chorale, Concert Choir and Northshore Chorale Society will join together as they present their spring concert “Requiem,” composed in 1985 by John Rutter.
“This wonderful work has received countless performances all over the world and is a favorite among professional musicians and all other lovers of music,” said Department of Fine and Performing Arts Interim Head, Dr. Kenneth Boulton.
In addition to the Requiem, the Concert Choir and Women’s Chorale will feature a few selections by composer Gwyneth Walker.
“The show will be split into two parts. The first half is music all by Gwyneth Walker, living American Composer. The Women’s Chorale will perform “My Girls” which is three separate pieces under the direction of Amy Prats. The Concert Choir will perform three other selections by Gwyneth Walker under the direction of Brian Martinez. The second half is the John Rutter “Requiem” with all the choirs combined and full orchestra under the direction of adjunct instructor, Brian Martinez,” said Director of Choral Activities, Alissa Rowe.
They have been preparing for this concert for a while and even had the composer herself help them put the pieces together.
“In March, composer Gwyneth Walker came to Southeastern to hold vocal and choral master classes, working on the pieces with these choirs. This was a fun and life-changing event for many involved and brings a new element to the performance,” said Concert Choir senior vocal music education major, Caleb Porter.
“In the past, all of these choirs have come together for spring performances, taking on major works, such as Bernstein’s ‘Chichester Psalms’ and Mozart’s ‘Requiem.’ This is usually a popular event, with a significant crowd of local residents, parents, and students,” said Porter. “We hope to, as always, make real music. There is something unique about performing with a combined choir of over 100 singers. Maybe, all of this will impact or inspire someone in the audience.”
So much time and effort is put into the concerts each year in order to produce a memorable performance. Of course, they could not pull it off without the help of everyone coming together. “Southeastern’s choral events have enjoyed incredible support from both the university and surrounding community,” said Boulton.
Tickets will be available at the Columbia Theatre box office and will be free for students, $10 for adults and $5 for Southeastern faculty and staff and non-Southeastern students.